Archive for February 6, 2019

This Saturday we welcome back Matt Gubitosa of ANIMALE who will be showing off some of his new wines. Matt’s wines have been a long time favorite at the shop, and this year we’ll be tasting two of his flagship reds (Cabernet Franc & Petit Sirah, grown in McIntire Vineyard in Sunnyside Washington) along with two new varietals from the Puget Sound AVA (Regent and Golubok, grown at the Battista Vineyard about 10 miles northeast of Bellingham.) Regent and Golubok are complex vinifera hybrids, that were originally developed in Germany, and the Ukraine, to ripen in cool climates. The results of them growing locally are exciting. Come by the shop and see what they are all about.

2016 Golubok $24Golubok of Russian origin from the Ukraine, has one-eighth parentage of Cabernet Sauvignon. Extremely early variety with red flesh and juice that attracts birds before you think it’s time to net. Unlike most red grapes in that the color pigment is not only located in the skins but is very significant in the pulp also. Its dark, inky-black red juice stains the glass. There is a smokiness in the fruit that blends well with its dark rich flavors.

2016 Regent $24A recent German cross, bred mainly for the German organic wine industry, Regent is extremely resistant to diseases. It ripens at least a week ahead of Pinot Noir. The Regent has and intense red color, aromas of cherries or blackcurrants, moderate acidity, and rich deep tannins.

2016 Reserve Cabernet Franc $26Aromas of fresh cherries with hints baking spices. The flavors are of cherries and blueberries, with suggestions of tobacco, and green tea. The finish is long and powerful.

We also have a few bottles of the 2015 Reserve Cabernet Franc available for purchase.

Madrona Wine Merchants offers free wine tastings featuring 4-5 selections on a theme every Saturday from 2 until the bottles run out and on Sunday, we offer a mini-tasting of two wines all day from 11-5.